Benefits of a Food Pyramid
Eating the right foods is essential for good health. Most people use food pyramids as guides to eating the right types of food. The U.S. Department of Agriculture developed special dietary guidelines regarding food. These guidelines help people eat healthier by showing the right foods and portion sizes they may need.
Healthy Choices
The pyramid is divided up into five main food groups Americans need to eat. These groups show different types of food to eat and how many servings a person needs each day. Examples of the five food groups and types of food to eat are:
- Grains: 6-11 servings of foods like oatmeal and whole-grain bread
- Dairy: 2-3 servings low-fat milk, cheese and other dairy products low in fat
- Vegetables: 3-5 servings of broccoli, collard greens and carrots
- Protein: 2-3 servings of skinless chicken breast, turkey and low-fat ground beef
- Fruits: 2-4 servings of watermelon, cantaloupe and strawberries
Weight Management
People can regulate their weight better if they follow the serving sizes on the pyramid. The servings can be spread out over each meal or throughout the day. The USDA recommends exercising as well to help maintain a healthy weight. People do not need to exercise all at once. Do 10-minute bursts of exercise throughout the day. Walking is an easy exercise to do after meals.
Menu Help
The food pyramid can help people choose foods to eat at each meal. It may make it easier for parents to introduce different foods to their kids as well. This can help kids make healthier choices as adults.